What is the ‘beer capital of the world’? Munich, Brussels, Prague – no one can settle on one city. But did you know that Cincinnati was once on the list? And it’s no surprise, given the city’s long and intricate history of beer brewing! The craft beer scene in Cincy is now competing with the rest of the world, ready to reclaim the title. 

Cincinnati’s Brewing Legacy Through the Years

Influenced by its German immigrants, it has been centuries since Cincinnati began its long love affair with beer. Being one of America’s historic beer brewing cities, Cincinnati had its share of challenges with the brewing industry, especially during Prohibition. But nothing can break the city’s spirit (pun intended), as the passionate people of Cincy have revived the beer scene, now stronger than ever with the rising number of craft breweries!  

Take a deep dive into Cincinnati’s brewing history with us and get ready to explore the city’s stellar collection of craft beers! Onward we go!

Early Beginnings: The Founding of Cincinnati’s Brewing Industry

Cincinnati’s growing population, coupled with its ideal location, made it the perfect place for beer brewers in the 1800s. The initial breweries of Cincinnati were small-scale, family-owned businesses, which mostly used traditional brewing techniques and local ingredients.

Immigrant Influence in Brewing 

Cincinnati was no stranger to immigrants, even in the 19th century. Aside from Irish immigrants, the German people made up the majority of the city’s immigrant population, which was clearly reflected in its changing beer brewing techniques. The beer-loving people of Germany introduced lager to the land, making it an instant hit. (More on that later!)

And God Said, Let The Hippies Dance

German Lager ABV 6.5 IBU 30

A malty sweet beer balanced by German Tettnang hops and German Lager yeast that creates an easy-drinking, bready, bold, and smooth German Lager!

Rise of Local Breweries

When the initial small-scale breweries began their successful run, many were inspired to start their own local brewery in Cincinnati. This was a great boost to the economy of the city and played a big role in bringing together the community. Did the pioneers know that beer would soon become an inseparable part of Cincinnati culture?  

The German Influence: Shaping Cincinnati’s Beer Culture

When the Germans started immigrating to the city in the early 19th century, they brought with them expert craft beer skills and an ardent love for the beverage. It didn’t take long for the locals to embrace German beer and their traditional beer-making techniques. And who can blame them, as German beer is still beloved across the globe!

The Importance of Lager

The crisp and clean bottom-fermented lager beer – a German party without the much-cherished lager is out of the question. Lagers were introduced to Cincinnati during a time when ales were all the rage in the US. Eventually, the celebrated ale moved aside for the newcomer as lagers became a quick favorite of the city folks!

Over-the-Rhine Brewing District

Home to most of the German immigrants in Cincinnati, Over-the-Rhine did not take long to grow into the hub of beer brewing. This historic place has witnessed many firsts of beer brewing, including the opening of the first German brewery in Cincy. Even today, no place in the city compares to this district’s amazing array of breweries and bars.

The Brewing Boom of the 1800s

The 1800s were the golden years of Cincinnati’s beer brewing – production skyrocketed and soon, the city was not just supplying to the locals, but to other major cities in America. 

Economic Impact of the Brewing Industry

The beer industry’s growth in Cincinnati had a huge impact on its economy and culture. Many locals found employment in breweries, not to mention the fact that the promise of a good glass of beer drove outsiders to visit the city. 

Prohibition’s Impact on Cincinnati Breweries

All was going well for Cincinnati’s beer brewers… until they were rudely awakened by Prohibition. When alcohol was made illegal in the US in 1920, it did not bode well for local brewers. Lasting till 1933, Prohibition caused many beloved breweries to shut down – Cincinnati’s breweries were not spared. 

How Breweries Adapted During Prohibition

While Prohibition was a huge blow to the breweries of America, many were not ready to admit defeat. Many breweries managed to stay afloat by brewing low-alcohol drinks, non-alcoholic drinks and soft drinks as an alternative. Sure, they were not as popular as alcohol, but scarcity forced the brewers to be creative, so people did not lose their interest. 

The Legacy of Prohibition

When Prohibition was lifted, demand for beer rose higher than ever. But many historic breweries of Cincinnati remained shut after being inactive for so long. The competition from commercial beers didn’t help either, and to make matters worse, traditional knowledge of beer brewing grew scarce.  

Post-Prohibition Revival and Mid-20th Century Decline

The threat of commercial beer brands loomed high in Cincinnati, as local breweries struggled to gain back their momentum. The 1950s were a tough time. National beer brands gained favor and craft beer was almost forgotten.

Well… almost. But we’ll get to that.

A Slow Recovery for Local Breweries

Local breweries found it difficult to gain back their popularity after Prohibition. Their recovery was slow and the reason for it? Commercial beer brands. A trusted bottle of commercial beer that promised you consistency was indeed a great idea for the average consumer. When the entire nation is pining after it, how can local breweries compete? 

Challenges from National Brands

National beer brands like Schlitz and Old Milwaukee flooded the market and mass-produced beer became an overnight star. They were cheaper, did not struggle financially and were available everywhere. And don’t forget the ads! Local breweries simply did not have the means to compete. 

Cincinnati’s Craft Beer Renaissance

So, what changed? 

After a while, your trusted beer brand might just become, well, boring. Who doesn’t want to change it up a little? There are only so many commercial brands you could try!

And that’s when craft beer slowly came to the limelight. With its creative and innovative brews, it rose to power once again, capturing the hearts of all Americans. Cincinnati did not hesitate to hop on this trend – some of the best breweries in the country are in our city!

Notable Breweries Leading the Resurgence

Cincy’s craft beers are once again trending and you can thank our local craft breweries for that. Our recommendation? We say you go for our craft brewery – Little Miami Brewing Company – for a delectable array of craft beers and mouthwatering food!

How Craft Breweries Shaped Modern Cincinnati

Modern Cincinnati is defined by many things – craft beer is one of them. Craft breweries did a lot for the city, including revitalizing old neighbourhoods like Over-the-Rhine. The local community is thriving more than ever, enjoying beer tastings and festivals. Tourists who visit the city cannot resist a visit to our breweries – they are legendary for a reason, after all!

Cincinnati’s Beer Scene Today: A Fusion of Past and Present

It was a tumultuous journey for Cincinnati’s breweries – they have had their ups and downs and their resilience and creativity has shone brighter than ever. Craft breweries are a brilliant example of the city’s way of blending tradition and modernity. All that was part of their past is never forgotten, and neither have they shied away from embracing change. This beautiful blend of our past, present and future is what makes our city so unique!

Modern Breweries Celebrating Tradition

Traditional beer can never go out of fashion. But how about giving them a new twist? Cincinnati’s craft breweries have taken on this challenge and made it better than ever! You can enjoy the rich heritage of the city in every drop of beer you drink here. 

Community and Cultural Events Around Beer

Where there’s beer, there’s a party! Beer tastings, beer festivals – you name it, you’ve got it, right here in Cincinnati. Whether it’s the holiday season, or the arrival of a new beer, the people of Cincinnati are a tight-knit community that celebrates it all. But it’s not just for the local folks, beer enthusiasts from all over the country visit the city for its beer-related cultural events!

Where to Experience Cincinnati’s Beer Heritage Today

Reading all that must have left you craving a fantastic glass of chilled craft beer. So now we will tell you how to enjoy the best glass of beer in Cincinnati – by experiencing its rich beer heritage, of course!

Touring Historic Breweries and Sites

Many of Cincinnati’s historic breweries are still standing. And you can explore them all by taking The Brewing Heritage Trail, which showcases the city’s unique brewing heritage, its old and new breweries and everything you need to know about beer. It’s the best self-guided walking trail for all beer enthusiasts. Many of Cincy’s craft breweries, including our own Little Miami also offers you a tour of the breweries and taprooms – so if you’re curious to know how beer making works, be sure to visit one! 

Must-visit Breweries with a Historic Touch

The breweries of Over-the-Rhine districts are a must-visit if you’re curious about the city’s history of beer brewing. Perhaps one of the only historic breweries in Cincinnati that is still functioning is Christian Moerlein Brewing Company, at 170 years old. 

Local Breweries Embracing Cincinnati’s Heritage

Local breweries like Little Miami Brewing Company and Rhinegeist are some of the best examples of modern breweries that embrace Cincinnati’s beer heritage. With our scenic view and versatile venue spaces, Little Miami Brewing is sure to be on your list of places to visit in Cincinnati!

Cincinnati’s Brewing History: A Legacy Worth Savoring

Wheather you are a seasoned beer lover or a complete novice – if you are anywhere near Cincinnati, give our local breweries a visit. It won’t be long before you start being a regular! With our diverse range of options – you can even opt for a family-friendly and non-alcoholic drinks. 

Visit us at Little Miami Brewing Company to savor award-winning, quintessential Cincinnati beers! We promise you a day of great beer, great food and great fun! If you still need more reasons to check us out, read our blog “Why Little Miami Brewing Company Should be on Your Cincinnati Brewery List”.